Popple Campground - South Manitou Island
02 reviews9922 Front Street, Empire, MI, 49630, USA
Popple Campground - South Manitou Island
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for group tent camping at South Manitou Island is $30 during peak season (May 23 - September 12).
About this campground
Venture deep into the wilderness of South Manitou Island to discover Popple Campground, a pristine backcountry sanctuary where seven intimate campsites await those seeking true solitude. After a 3.7-mile journey from the ferry dock, you'll find yourself in a world stripped down to essentials—just you, your tent, a crackling fire ring, and the endless horizon of Lake Michigan. This remote outpost offers no modern amenities save for a simple pit toilet, inviting adventurers to embrace the raw beauty of island camping at its most authentic.
Popple Campground is a primitive, backcountry campground catering to tent camping enthusiasts. It is one of the most remote camping options within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Historical SignificanceCamp among echoes of maritime history on South Manitou Island, where the beacon of the historic lighthouse once guided countless vessels through treacherous waters. The ghostly silhouette of the Francisco Morazan, wrecked in 1960, serves as a haunting reminder of Lake Michigan's power. Beneath your feet lie geological wonders sculpted by ancient glaciers—the same forces that carved this remarkable island into existence, creating a landscape that tells stories spanning millennia.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Michigan's moods at Popple Campground, where summer days bask in temperatures between 70-90°F, perfect for exploring sun-warmed dunes and refreshing lake swims. As darkness falls, temperatures dip to a comfortable 50-70°F, ideal for stargazing around the campfire. Winter transforms the island into a frozen wonderland, with snow blanketing the landscape from late November through March and temperatures plunging below freezing—a time when only the most intrepid souls venture to this remote paradise.
ElevationNestled at the gentle elevation near Lake Michigan's shoreline, Popple Campground offers level terrain that makes setting up camp a breeze while keeping you close to the rhythmic pulse of the waves.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to a landscape that seems lifted from a dream—rolling sand dunes cascade toward pebble-strewn beaches where Lake Michigan's turquoise waters stretch to infinity. Behind your campsite, ancient white cedar forests stand sentinel, their gnarled trunks bearing witness to over 500 years of island history. This glacially-carved wonderland offers endless exploration, from wind-sculpted dune peaks to hidden coves where smooth stones tell their own geological tales.
Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the geological marvel of South Manitou Island, a jewel within the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This extraordinary landscape showcases nature's artistry through windswept sand dunes, beaches adorned with glacier-polished pebbles, and groves of ancient white cedar trees that have defied time for half a millennium. Every step reveals new evidence of the glacial forces that shaped this unique ecosystem, creating a natural playground where geological history comes alive beneath your feet.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is not described as having specific accessibility features, and the primitive nature may make it unsuitable for those requiring accessible facilities.
Sites SizeThe campground consists of 7 individual sites that are fairly small and suitable for tents only.
Sites PrivacyGiven its remote location and small number of sites, the campground offers a high degree of privacy. Site #3 is particularly noted for its scenic location by the lake.
Total Campsites7 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring water filtration equipment for lake water. Wear pants to avoid poison ivy on trails.
Best CampsitesSite #3 is highly recommended for its cliff-side view of Lake Michigan.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- Check-in timing not specified
- campers should arrive at the dock and register before hiking to the campground.
Check-out
- Check-out timing not specified
- departure aligns with ferry schedules.
Stay Limit
Limit of 14 nights total during Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Individual sites allow up to 4 people. Group sites accommodate 9-20 people.
Groups
There are no designated group sites at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are individually spaced along sandy soils near the beach. No loops or sections specified.
Open and Closed SeasonOpens May 23, 2025. Reservations available during peak season until September 12, 2025. Closed in off-season due to lack of services.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be booked via Manitou Island Transit for ferry transportation or directly at the island ranger station.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served individual sites available at Popple Campground. Limited availability due to remote location and popularity during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations for individual sites are permitted until midnight before scheduled arrival, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations or no-shows incur additional penalties, including forfeiting first-night fees.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Popple Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities, leveraging its remote and scenic location. Popular activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the beaches. Campers can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of South Manitou Island while enjoying solitude and rugged landscapes.
Hiking
The campground provides access to hiking trails around South Manitou Island, including a 10-mile perimeter trail through pebble beaches and forested areas. Trails lead to features like old-growth cedar forests and unique sand dune formations.Swimming
Campers can access nearby beaches for swimming. The beaches are primarily pebble, and water shoes are recommended.Wildlife viewing
The remote and natural setting offers excellent opportunities to observe wildlife native to the island.Beach activities
Campers can enjoy beachcombing along the pebble beaches. These areas provide a serene environment for relaxation and exploration.Winter Activities
There is no mention of winter-specific activities, and the remote nature may make it inaccessible during the off-season.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are explicitly mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are permitted only in fire rings using dead wood. Imported firewood is prohibited due to pest concerns.
- Quiet hours not explicitly stated; general park rules apply.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison ivy is prevalent on trails. Chipmunks are frequent visitors to campsites, making proper food storage essential. Remote location requires preparedness for weather changes and ferry delays.
Active alertsDock access for private boats and potable water unavailable in 2025 due to construction funded by the Great American Outdoors Act.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 50%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 12.8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are accessible through Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore ranger stations in Empire, MI. No medical facilities or emergency services on the island.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 23, 2025 - September 12, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo dedicated trash or recycling facilities are mentioned. Campers are advised to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Lake Michigan on South Manitou Island. Requires water filtration for drinking.
Common complaintsReviews highlight the challenging hike (3.7 miles one-way) and lack of potable water. Mosquitoes are less problematic at Popple compared to other sites.
HostNo campground host information provided. Rangers may offer assistance at the island dock.
Campground Map
9922 Front Street, Empire, MI, 49630, USA
Driving directionsFrom Traverse City, Michigan, take M-22 to Sutton's Bay. Go west on M-204 from Sutton's Bay towards Leland. Turn north at the junction of M-22 and M-204 to Leland. Take the Manitou Island Transit ferry from Leland to South Manitou Island.
Accessible only by private boat or passenger ferry. South Manitou Island is remote, requiring a boat ride and a 3.7-mile hike to reach Popple Campground.Nearby places
Empire (0 miles, as nearest city), Traverse City (approx. 26 miles, 45-minute drive), Leland (approx. 17 miles, ferry departure point).
Nearby supplies
Empire, MI (groceries, camping supplies, fuel)
Leland, MI (ferry access)
no supplies available on South Manitou Island.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Popple Campground - South Manitou Island has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews praise the campground for its remote location, scenic beauty, and quiet atmosphere. However, the lack of amenities and the long hike from the dock are common concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
"The views are gorgeous," particularly from site #3, which overlooks the lake. The remote and quiet setting is frequently appreciated by reviewers, with one stating, "Worth the hike in even through...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The absence of purified water is a recurring concern, with one reviewer noting, "Bring filtration straws so you can drink water from the lake." Additionally, the long hike (3.7 miles one-way) from...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to pack water filtration equipment and wear long pants to mitigate poison ivy exposure. Water shoes are recommended for walking on the pebble beaches. A specific recommendation is...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most popular time to visit, as the weather is generally favorable for outdoor activities. However, mosquitoes can be a nuisance during this season. The area is less accessible during...
Based on 2 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Very Remote! No water, no electricity, and almost no cell phone service." Another user shared, "Great time, fun backpack camping."
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #3 is highlighted as the best spot due to its location on the cliff with lake views.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features, though the challenging hike may make it unsuitable for those with mobility limitations.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed, so there are no pet-specific reviews.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025